Politics locally and nationally “could be about to take a darker turn,” says Liberal Democrat councillor, Cllr John Pugh, as flagrantly racist graffiti is appearing in various parts of the borough, including by the side of Southport’s Marine Lake.
Sefton cleansing has had to remove increasing amounts of wholly unacceptable graffiti appearing in the borough.
“This isn’t just mindless daubing,” says John Pugh, “88 is code for Adolf Hitler and NS/WP is a pro-Russian, white supremacist group.
“In the political underground some very negative actors are feeling emboldened and signalling to each other and the wider world. Unfortunately there is a growing impression that anyone can do what they like in public space.
“To be fair, the Council has drawn the line on swastika flags and removed them, but extremists don’t wait for or care about council permission.
“No-one will ever stop people holding whatever views they do, but no-one without public consent has the right to use public space to project them – especially when the object is to fuel hatred rather than civic and civil debate.”
Specific areas like Sunderland, Merseyside, Smethwick, York, and parts of Northern Ireland have seen a noticeable increase in reports of offensive and racist graffiti, often including swastikas.
“This is organised stuff, “says Cllr Pugh, “ as our local police force is only too aware “.
Sefton Council Leader Cllr Atkinson said:
“I have said before and I will always say there is no place in Sefton for racist messages that try to undermine the values that bind our communities together.”
At November’s full council meeting, Sefton Councillors reaffirmed, unanimously, their commitment to tackling racism and encouraging unity across the Borough.
A notice of motion was agreed that condemned racist graffiti that had appeared in Bootle and reaffirmed Sefton’s commitment to being a Borough where all people are treated with dignity and respect. This built upon a previously agreed Unity Motion, reaffirming the Borough’s unwavering commitment to opposing racism, hate, and discrimination in all forms.
Cllr Atkinson added:
“In November we agreed to ensure prompt removal of racist or hateful graffiti on public property and assist private owners as well and to support Merseyside Police’s investigations of these incidents.
“We are working with schools, community groups, and partners to deliver anti-racism education and strengthen community cohesion and we encourage residents to speak out against racism and report hate incidents.
“Dignity and respect are paramount in Sefton, and we stand firm against anyone trying to drive a wedge between our communities.”
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